Machop Chol Signs Homegrown Contract with Atlanta United
1/19/2021 4:00:00 PM | Men's Soccer
Chol becomes the second member of this year’s team to sign a homegrown contract and the 24th professional signing from the program over the last six years.
ATLANTA -- Atlanta United of Major League Soccer (MLS) announced on Tuesday the signing of Wake Forest men's soccer's Machop Chol to a homegrown contract. He was an original member of Atlanta United's U-18s during the Academy's inaugural 2016-17 season.
Chol is the second Demon Deacon to sign a homegrown contract this month, joining Isaiah Parente who became a member of the Columbus Crew on Jan. 11. Additionally, he is the 11th member of Wake Forest men's soccer to sign a homegrown contract dating back to 2013.
"Being an athlete, I have met many people here, but most importantly my teammates, many of which I call my brothers," Chol said. "Thanks to you, I have had the chance to make memories that will be remembered long after my time here. From winning an ACC Championship to playing in the College Cup. I am forever grateful to The Congregation and all of the supporters I have had the chance to play in front of. Your support was like no other, and to wear the jersey in front of you guys was always a blessing.
"These past few years have been some of the best and I will always be grateful. You hold a special place in my heart. Thank you, Wake Forest!"
During his four years at Wake Forest, the Tucker, Ga., native played in 65 matches with 42 starts, registering 13 goals with 17 assists for 43 points. Playing more than 3,000 minutes during his Demon Deacon career, Chol started his final 28 appearances.
Chol made his debut for the Demon Deacons in 2017 with 13 appearances.
During a breakout campaign in 2018, he played in all 21 games to record 17 points on five goals and seven assists. His first of two-game winning goals that season came against Florida Gulf Coast while also tallying an assist on the Deacs' game-winning strike against Colgate in the NCAA Tournament.
As a junior in 2019, his contributions continued with a team-high eight assists paired with four goals as he was named a third-team All-ACC selection and a third-team All-South Region selection.
Chol started all eight of his appearances during the fall 2020 season to record three goals and two assists.
"Machop wanted it from day one," said head coach Bobby Muuss. "The day Machop walked onto campus, he was destined for success by the way he carried himself, the way he worked and by how appreciative he was for anything and everything. He didn't complain and put his head down and embraced the competition. He has worked so hard and earned this contract.
"I am literally speaking for everyone within the Wake Forest Family when I say how happy we all are for him. Great things ahead."
